Marcus Gilbert sent from Steelers to Cardinals

PITTSBURGH, PA – JANUARY 14: Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert (77) is announced during the AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 14, 2018 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pa. (Photo by Mark Alberti/ Icon Sportswire)

Pittsburgh drafted a replacement for Gilbert last year in Western Michigan’s Chukuma Okorafor in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Clearly the team feels that the developmental tackle is ready to step in. Clearing the $5 million from the books also will help Pittsburgh attract some free agents in an effort to get back in the playoffs.

Grade: A for Arizona

Arizona is desperate for help along the offensive line. The unit last year was one of the worst in the NFL and started Joe Barksdale, a free agent this offseason, at right tackle. Gilbert’s prowess in pass protection should mesh well with new coach Kliff Kingsbury’s spread out offense. That will go a long way in developing whoever is under center for the Cardinals next year.

Gilbert allows Arizona to address the other needs in free agency in the draft with giving up very little capital. He pairs with D.J. Humphries to form a competent tackle duo, which is saying a lot given the state of the offensive line a year ago. The Cardinals can now focus on the interior of their line, defense and skill positions in the new league year.